Burnett Dairy Cooperative Appoints Christopher Ecker as Chief Executive Officer
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Burnett Dairy Cooperative Appoints Christopher Ecker as Chief Executive Officer
GRANTSBURG, WI —Burnett Dairy Cooperative is pleased to announce the appointment of Christopher Ecker as Chief Executive Officer.
Ecker has been part of the Burnett Dairy family since 2024, serving as Vice President of Foodservice. During his tenure in that role, he played an important part in expanding customer relationships, strengthening Burnett Dairy’s foodservice presence, and supporting continued growth across the cooperative. He has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, a deep commitment to Burnett Dairy’s values, and a strong understanding of the dairy industry.
“Chris has already made a significant impact during his time at Burnett Dairy," said Grant Gausmann, Chairman of the Burnett Dairy Board of Directors. "We have seen his dedication on the ground, and we are excited to see him lead the cooperative into its next chapter.”
Prior to joining Burnett Dairy, Ecker spent a decade with Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited, a New Zealand-based dairy cooperative, where he held roles in foodservice sales and market development, gaining extensive experience in both domestic and international markets.
"It has been a privilege to be part of the Burnett Dairy team over the past two years, and I am honored to step into the role of Chief Executive Officer," said Ecker. "I've seen firsthand the dedication of our employees, the commitment of our member farms, and the strength of the relationships we've built with our customers. I look forward to continuing that work and helping the cooperative grow while staying true to the values that have guided Burnett Dairy for generations."
Ecker holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Bloomsburg University. Originally from Williamsport, Pennsylvania, he resides in Gurnee, Illinois,
and is in the process of relocating to the Grantsburg area with his wife, Emily, and their three children, Eleanor, Edward, and Oscar. The Ecker family looks forward to becoming part of the community and embracing the cooperative spirit that has defined Burnett Dairy for more than 130 years.
Ecker succeeds former Chief Executive Officer Matt Winsand, who stepped down on June 19th.
As Ecker steps into this role, he brings extensive experience in both domestic and international foodservice markets, along with a strong background in cooperative business operations. His leadership and industry expertise will guide Burnett Dairy into its next chapter.
We are excited to welcome Chris into this role and look forward to the leadership he brings to Burnett Dairy Cooperative.
About Burnett Dairy Cooperative
Burnett Dairy Cooperative is a farmer-owned cooperative based near Grantsburg, Wisconsin. Founded in 1896, it’s where farm families partner with crop and dairy experts to produce high-quality milk from the ground up. Guided by Master Cheesemaker Rob Stellrecht, Burnett’s cheeses are Masterfully Made™ with inventive flavors and craftsmanship for retail, deli, foodservice, and private label customers. Products are available through national distribution.
Media Contact:
Alison Hoefs
Chief Human Resource Officer
Burnett Dairy Cooperative
Alison.Hoefs@burnettdairy.com
715.689.2000
